The best camping near Torch Lake
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Torch Lake adventure.
Discover the natural splendor of Torch Lake Nature Preserve.
Popular ways to camp
Community favorites near Torch Lake
Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.
Top-rated campgrounds near Torch Lake
Vintage Waterfront Log Cabins
1 site · Lodging2 acres · Central Lake, MI
Make yourself at home and embrace your own unique experience at our property and its breathtaking surroundings. Whether you prefer to unwind and chill, bask in the tranquility of nature, or engage in lively activities, the choice is yours.
Relaxation awaits as you take in the mesmerizing sunrise and sunset, savoring moments of peace and quiet by the lake. Dive into the refreshing waters for a swim, or grab a paddleboard, kayak, or paddle boat to explore the serene beauty of our lake and its connecting waterways.
Indulge in the simple pleasures of life with a campfire under the starry sky, playing in the sand, or firing up the BBQ for a delicious meal. Enjoy quality time with loved ones, sharing stories and making memories that will last a lifetime.
For a change of scenery, embark on a day trip to nearby parks, embark on scenic hikes, or explore charming towns filled with quaint restaurants, farm fresh produce stands, bakeries offering mouthwatering treats, and souvenir shops brimming with treasures. Treat yourself to indulgent delights like ice cream and fudge, adding a sweet touch to your adventures.
And remember, watercraft without motors are complimentary, so feel free to paddle away and immerse yourself in the serenity of the water. Whatever your preferences, our property offers endless possibilities for relaxation, adventure, and creating cherished moments.
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$175
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94%
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Fieldguide Farmhouse
2 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Central Lake, MI
Up North Charm! Est 1910 fieldstone farmhouse on a hilltop overlooking Intermediate Lake. Learn more about this land:Camping is available east of our stone farmhouse in a meadow and grove of trees on 6 acres of private, scenic, hilltop and lakeside property.
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$80
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98%
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Chain of Lakes Camp Six Mile Lake
4 sites · RVs1 acre · East Jordan, MI
On the Chain of Lakes in Northwest Michigan in a valley carved by glaciers!
We are closed seasonally from October 15th until May 1st.
You are in a land carved by glaciers, seriously! A place away from the rest of the world, but within a short drive to the best Northwest Michigan has to offer. We are on a quiet road away from the hustle and bustle. Peaceful, quiet, one acre property surrounded by deep wooded forests. If you are looking to get away, this is it! A private, full hook-up, RV campground with all the amenities including high speed internet. This is glamping at its BEST! You will not find a more charming place so close to the lakes of Northwest Michigan's lower peninsula and all within driving distance to the coolest cities. In full disclosure, we are not a commercial resort campground or a state park: this is our family property. We are excited in the joy and happy moments this land brings to our family and others. If you want a place with a hundred sites and tons of people around you this is not going to be a place you want to stay.
Four full hook-up sites. Max RV length is 38' depending on what site you book! Sites #1 and #2 can accommodate a 32' RV and Sites #3 and #4 can accommodate a 38' RV. If your RV is over 38' we cannot accommodate you. You must back into the driveway from the road (there are no pull through sites). Our driveway is 15' - 20' wide for ease of backing up. 20/30/50 amp electrical, sewer, water, internet WIFI (100mbs), fire pit (please do not move fire pits), and a picnic table are included for each site. Trash bin is at the road. The sites are level, consist of crushed concrete gravel covered by 6a stone, and are 12' wide. Each RV is $50.00 per night. One family per site unless you are booking as a group. Check-In is 1:00 p.m. and Check-Out is 11:00 a.m.
We do not provide firewood any longer.
At this time, we DO NOT accommodate stand alone tent camping as we have no restroom facilities; however, if you have an RV and bring a tent with you that is cool, just let us know and we will show you the best spot to set up the tent.
Pets are welcome but we ask that you clean up after them, be mindful of other guests, and be respectful of our neighbor's property. IF YOUR PET IS ON THE NEIGHBOR’S PROPERTY YOU WILL BE ASKED TO LEAVE and no refund will be provided.
Bring your boats, canoes, kayaks, bathing suits, and fishing poles! Less than a 3 minute walk to Echo Township Park (Six Mile Lake) with beach, playground and boat launch (yes, you can literally walk there). 25 minutes to Torch Lake Township Day Park (Torch Lake), Antrim Creek Nature Area (Lake Michigan), Norwood Township Park (Lake Michigan), Elm Pointe Recreation area (Lake Charlevoix's South Arm), or Notewares Landing Beach (Lake Bellaire). This is by far the coolest place east of the Mississippi to hit rivers, streams, and lakes.
Hiking at its best! Glacial Hills Pathway and Natural Area Trailhead (Bellaire); Avalanche Preserve (Boyne City); Sleepy Hollow Nature Preserve (East Jordan); and Northpoint Nature Preserve (Charlevoix).
Go shopping or out to eat! 15 minutes to East Jordan (breakfast at Southarm Cafe is a must / dinner at Las Maracas for tacos), Bellaire (Short's Brewery), Central Lake (visit Bachmann's Five and Dime) or Ellsworth (Front Porch Cafe Breakfast). 25 minutes to Charlevoix (don't forget to visit Castle Farms on the way). 30 minutes to Boyne City (Indo China Gardens has great Asian cuisine). 35 minutes to Elk Rapids (Pearl's New Orleans Kitchen). 45 minutes to Petoskey. 1 hour to Traverse City. Hour and a half to Mackinaw City.
Wine and beer are good! Hit up Cellar 1914; the Cellars at Royal Farms; Bier's Inwood Brewery; 1918 Cellars; Chateau Lake Charlevoix; Waterfire Vineyards Torch Lake; Torch Lake Cellars; Vista Ridge Vineyards; and Short's Brewery!
Things for kids to do! Ravenhill Discovery Center in East Jordan! Hungry Ducks Farm to pet some animals and go trout fishing. Visit Castle Farms!
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$55
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(30)
Uraharas On The Hill
2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Alden, MI
Uraharas is a music venue that hosts events throughout the summer. We are happy to now open our space to campers on the dates that are not scheduled for events. We hope you enjoy our space as much as we have in creating it!
Learn more about this land:
*ADULTS ONLY CAMPING* Set up camp in our little wooded get away at the top of the valley. There are many great things near and many more within a reasonable drive. We are located just three miles from Torch Lake sandbar with several public access sites. Spend the day swimming or rent a kayak or pontoon to further explore. Check out Seven Bridges Nature Area just five miles away. Head over to Short’s Brewery in Bellaire. Take a drive to Turtle Creek Casino and Traverse City in thirty minutes or less. At the end of your exciting day come relax and build a fire in our communal fire pit. Enjoy the colorful sights as we light up the forest at night (weather permitting). Campsites are located in a specific area. You may have camp neighbors not so far away and will not be a guarantee that it’s completely silent or secluded. Please be mindful of one another. We love the sounds of a good time happening but we do ask that after 11 pm weekdays and 12 am weekends that you keep a respectable level. As title says this is camping for ages 18 and up. Front area can accommodate parking for your boat/kayak trailer.
Uraharas is an excellent setting to use as larger group camping. If you need bookings for your group beyond the max of the two combined sites please message me for details!
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$47
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Clearwater Heights
2 sites · RVs, Tents120 acres · Rapid City, MI
I own and live on 190 acres but am beginning my Hip Camp experience with allowing camping on 120-acres. The property is hilly and wooded with miles of trails on the property as well as access to nearby state trail-systems. The Skegemog Swamp Preserve trailhead is several miles away and downtown Traverse is a 30-minute drive. A little over a mile from the campsite is an artesian well along a public roadway that is popular with campers and the site is mowed by a neighbor; this is quirky little water-source that has been there for well over 50 years. The Skegemog Swamp Preserve is home to bears that visit my property for the many raspberry and blackberry opportunities, so be aware.
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$35
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Porcupine Hollow Farm
1 site · Lodging100 acres · Central Lake, MI
Porcupine Hollow Farm is a former cattle farm. From the early 1900’s to the 1970’s the farm belonged to the Knowles family. The Hanlon family purchased the farm in 1978. It was turned into a Christmas tree farm in 1989. We have two beautiful historic barns (one once housed a circus elephant) and a more modern horse barn. Located on one hundred acres with ponds, streams, hardwood forests, Christmas tree fields and natural cedar swamps. We are located less than a mile from downtown Central Lake, but the farm feels very secluded. There is a huge ridge line between the farm and town. We are only a few miles from Torch Lake and Lake Michigan. Centrally located for easy day trips. Only 45 minutes from Traverse City and Petoskey, just under two hours from Mackinaw City and the upper peninsula on Michigan.
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$75
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92%
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South Torch Lake Sugarbush
1 site · Tent5 acres · Rapid City, MI
Learn more about this land:Located a few hundred feet from blue ribbon trout stream the Rapid River. Also less than a mile away is the carribean of the north, south torch lake sandbar. Nestled in a 5 acre grove of maples, You can find the perfect quiet spot in the woods for wildlife viewing or camp closer to the road with easy access to camp van on the property incase of inclement weather. Three sites to choose from. Potable water from my well and firewood from my woods are also available. Please note: you may hear deer and other animals walking around your site, remember, they were here first. :-) Please leave a note in the guestbook provided and happy camping. (Guest tour of the floura/fauna upon request).
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$20
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Elm Valley
2 sites · RVs20 acres · Suttons Bay, MI
I am 4th generation to live on our property. we are very lucky to have been able to keep 20 acres where I grew up.
We are surrounded by Cherry orchards and vineyards.
There are 4 wineries within a mile and the bike trail in half a mile away
Boat launch on Lake Leelanau 3 miles away
A boat launch on Grand Traverse Bay is 1/2 a mile awayLearn more about this land:We have a large hard pack gravel area surrounded by rolling hills and lots of trees. Our house is near by with trees in between.
There is a good 60 ft between campers and each site has water and 30 amp. Their own fire pit.
We are half a mile from the Leelanau Trail. 10 miles into Traverse city.
5 miles to Suttons Bay
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$50
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96%
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Rocky Top "Preserve"
2 sites · Lodging300 acres · Ellsworth, MI
Grandpa Tom started this farm in the 1970's. Rocky Top Farms is a fruit farm. We grow a lot of cherries, some peaches, blueberries, elderberries, raspberries. Rocky Top hosts disc golf tournaments, music festivals, weddings, and hosts on both Hipcamp and Airbnb. We make preserves, fruit butters and salsa which ship all over the world, and are locally served in many hotels and restaurants.
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$100
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Camp Moonshadow
6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Honor, MI
Our property was originally the only homestead on this road. WE offer 4 Walk in Tent sites and a RV site for small campers up 20 ft. WE also have a 59 Vintage Shasta that rents nitely up to 3 nites
The big barn was built over 100 years ago and is still standing.
The farm house was built in 1907.
It has been remodeled with a second story added.
Pine trees were planted to prevent erosion in the 1960's.
The national park began buying land near us in the 1970's and the boundary line to the park is a half-mile from Moonshadow Camp.
The area is surrounded by state forests and many hiking and biking trails.
Our valley is known for incredible stargazing.
Amenities include full access to the Camp kitchen and dining area. You will also have access to a Portable restroom and hand washing station which is located by our BIG BARN. Hot Showers, no problem, you can enjoy a secluded private shower in our shower house which has indoor and outdoor showers. Nearby is Lake Michigan and Esch Rd beach. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake shore is nearby and The National Park is famous for attractions , trails, and hiking. Electricity and
water is included at the RV site, and the Shasta Camper along with the Showerhouse and Camp Kitchen
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$60
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(1)
Sweetwater Shores
1 site · Lodging1 acre · Central Lake, MI
Our property is in the Village of Central Lake with a close walk to grocery, restaurants, and bars. On the bank of Intermediate lake, we offer quiet, peaceful retreat close to downtown Central Lake. You can dock your own boat at our dock, or take it along the Chain of Lakes from Bellaire to Ellsworth.
Located a short drive from Torch Lake, one of the most beautiful in the world, according to National Geographic Magazine, award winning golf courses, hiking trails, vibrant downtowns and local wineries. Centrally located between Traverse City, Petoskey, Gaylord or Charlevoix, day trips to the "city" is just a short drive away. This is a perfect 'base camp' centrally located to many of the glories of Northern Michigan.
You will be using our 28' travel trailer, with all the amenities - WiFi, A/C, very comfy queen mattress. We live on property, so we can be available if you wish.
Nothing can beat a campfire at the lake front, or sitting in the swing and watching the wildlife. Kayaks are available for lazy exploration of the water.
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$130
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Secluded Hidden Gem in Leelanau CO
1 site · LodgingNorthport, MI
When we bought our land 7 years ago, it was on old apple orchard turned vineyard. In the time since, we have put our all into it to build a home and create a forever homestead to raise our family. To us, it’s the greatest place on Earth. We absolutely love where we live and think you will too!Learn more about this land:Newly built tiny house 2 miles south of Northport. Nestled in the woods overlooking a pond and surrounded by an organic vineyard/farm. Short walk to organic winery, 5 minute drive to quaint town of Northport, 15 minutes to Leland and Fishtown, and 20 minutes to Sutton’s Bay.
The tiny house sleeps 2 on a queen sized bed in loft and another 2 on a futon on main floor. All linens are included.
The kitchen is equipped with refrigerator/freezer, 2 burner hot plate, electric skillet, and coffee maker.
There is water in the tiny house, but there is not a toilet or shower inside. A portable restroom is located right outside.
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$100
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The best camping near Torch Lake guide
Overview
About
A hidden gem in the Great Lakes region, Torch Lake is a great alternative to the bustling vacation spots visited by most tourists. Commonly known as the "Caribbean of the North", Torch Lake's crystal clear blue waters are surrounded by cozy campsites and miles of easily accessible hiking trails. Torch Lake's clear waters have been a local secret for ages and with little urban development in the surrounding area, the lake is easily accessible from some of the world-class camping locations in the lakeside hills.
When to go
The best times to visit Torch Lake are during the spring and fall when the trails are less crowded and the natural beauty is at its peak. Summer offers warm weather for hiking, but be prepared for more visitors. Winter snowshoeing is magical, though some may find the cold challenging.
Know before you go
- Preserve hours are from dawn until dusk, perfect for day trips amid the beauty of nature.
- Dog walking is permitted, but keep your furry friends on a leash to protect the local wildlife.
- Remember, no camping, fires, or hunting is allowed, preserving the tranquility of the preserve.
- For those interested in flora and fauna, join the iNaturalist community to share your observations.
- Accessibility may vary, so check the preserve map and contact the conservancy for the latest information.
Top cities near Torch Lake
- Torch Lake
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